Aquafeed Additives Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The Aquafeed Additives Market Report is Segmented by Species Type (Fish, Mollusks, Crustaceans, and Others), by Additives Type (Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, Amino Acids, Enzymes, Acidifiers, and More), by Form (Dry Extruded Pellets, Moist Pellets, and More) and by Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Aquafeed Additives Market Size and Share

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Compare market size and growth of Aquafeed Additives Market with other markets in Animal Nutrition & Wellness Industry

Aquafeed Additives Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Aquafeed Additives Market size is estimated at USD 2.9 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 3.68 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.90% during the forecast period. Strong demand for functional nutrition, tighter antibiotic-use rules, and finite fishmeal supplies are steering feed formulators toward precision-engineered additives that raise feed conversion efficiency and protect fish health. Europe’s regulatory push for sustainable aquaculture and Asia-Pacific’s production scale jointly underpin volume growth, while emerging protein sources such as single-cell biomass widen the portfolio of compatible additives. Investments in AI-driven feeding systems that cut wastage by 10-20% further enhance uptake, especially among high-value salmon and shrimp operators. Volatile fishmeal prices and lengthy approval timelines temper progress, yet government incentive programs from the EU’s Horizon funds to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 offset part of the risk.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By species type, fish held 53.2% of the aquafeed additives market share in 2024, while crustaceans are projected to rise at a 9.1% CAGR by 2030.
  • By additive type, amino acids led with 21.3% of the aquafeed additives market size in 2024; probiotics and prebiotics post the fastest growth at 9.4% CAGR.
  • By form, dry extruded pellets accounted for 67.8% of the aquafeed additives market size in 2024, and the micro-encapsulated powders are projected at an 11.1% CAGR.
  • By geography, Asia-Pacific captured 61.4% revenue share in 2024, but Europe registers the highest regional CAGR of 8.3% through 2030.
  • BASF, Evonik, and Cargill collectively controlled 18% of the aquafeed additives market share in 2024.

Segment Analysis

By Species Type: Fish Hold the Majority While Crustaceans Lead Growth

Fish accounted for 53.2% of the aquafeed additives market share in 2024, maintaining their position as the largest consumer group thanks to the scale of salmon, tilapia, and carp farming worldwide. This dominance converted into an estimated USD 1.54 billion slice of the aquafeed additives market size in 2025, illustrating the purchasing power of operators that have standardized additive protocols to safeguard feed-conversion ratios. Salmon producers in Norway and Chile continue to layer functional amino acids and antioxidants that counteract stress during high-density grow-out and transport phases, the Asian carp farms emphasize cost-effective vitamin and enzyme packages to hit tight feed budgets. Established feed mills already integrate digital traceability, so any additive that demonstrates a measurable uplift in feed efficiency or fillet yield quickly scales through long-term supply contracts. Consequently, fish farming sets the baseline specification that most suppliers use when validating new ingredients.

Crustaceans, led by shrimp, display the fastest adoption curve with a 9.1% CAGR through 2030 as producers justify the higher additive spend to offset still-elevated disease risks and achieve premium coloration. Trials using 5% astaxanthin-rich krill oil have delivered 100% survival under salinity stress while raising market value through deeper pigmentation, reinforcing willingness to pay for specialty inputs. Chinese farmers continue turning to multi-phase functional diets that include immunostimulant probiotics, the South American growers focus on encapsulated phytogenics that resist leaching in brackish ponds. Mollusks and niche species such as sea cucumbers remain small but notable, with micronized mineral blends enhancing shell strength and texture—attributes that fetch superior prices in gourmet channels. As demand diversifies, suppliers tailor species-specific additive bundles, positioning the aquafeed additives market for steady volume and value gains across distinct production segments.

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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Form: Micro-Encapsulation Transforms Delivery Systems

Dry extruded pellets dominated with 67.8% of the aquafeed additives market share in 2024, translating into the largest slice of the aquafeed additives market size because most commercial ponds and cages already rely on automated feeders that dispense uniform pellets with predictable sink rates. High output lines in Asia and South America prefer this form since its hardness, moisture profile, and dust level can be adjusted quickly to suit species' needs while keeping production costs low. Feed mills now fine-tune pellet matrices with heat-stable enzymes and encapsulated vitamins to cut nutrient losses during extrusion and subsequent bulk handling. Operators also monitor pellet breakage because fines clog precision feeders and inflate wastage, prompting suppliers to refine binder ratios and introduce optical sorters for tighter quality control.

Micro-encapsulated powders post the fastest 11.1% CAGR through 2030 as coacervation and electrostatic spray drying shield sensitive bioactives from heat and humidity, extending shelf life to 18 months under warehouse conditions. Encapsulation efficiencies as high as 99% preserve omega-3 fatty acids, essential oils, and probiotics until they hit the gut, which improves efficacy and lets formulators lower inclusion rates without sacrificing performance. Uniform particle size supports homogeneous dispersion in mash or pellet coatings, reducing hotspot risks that can trigger palatability dips or off-flavors. As farms install AI-guided dispensers capable of dosing micron-scale supplements directly into water columns, demand for low-dust, free-flowing powders is set to accelerate. Together, these trends are reshaping formulation strategy, pushing suppliers to balance the cost advantages of traditional pellets with the performance edge that advanced encapsulation brings.

By Additive Type: Probiotics Surge Past Traditional Categories

Amino acids retain a 21.3% share, anchoring protein synthesis in diets and pushing fishmeal replacement above 35%. Probiotics and prebiotics exhibit 9.4% CAGR, reflecting broad regulatory endorsement and field efficacy. Multi-strain blends at 2 grams per kilogram have enhanced growth and antioxidant enzyme activity in Cirrhinus mrigala, reducing FCR by 0.1 points on average. The aquafeed additives market size for probiotics is projected to climb from USD 0.34 billion in 2025 to USD 0.58 billion in 2030.

Enzyme innovation is another lever. Protease inclusion raises amino-acid digestibility, while phytase unlocks bound phosphorus, curbing mineral leaching in ponds. Vitamins A and E in nano-emulsions see uptake during temperature stress events, supporting oxidative resilience. Meanwhile, microbial astaxanthin from Phaffia rhodozyma offers a scalable alternative to crustacean by-product extraction, freeing supplies for salmonids. Collectively, these shifts deepen product diversity across the aquafeed additives market.

Aquafeed Additives Market: Market Share by Additive Type
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Geography Analysis

Asia-Pacific contributed 61.4% of global revenue in 2024 and continues to anchor volume growth, led by China’s shrimp production surpassing 2 million metric tons. Disease outbreaks and protein-source shifts compel farms to layer immune-enhancing additives on top of core amino-acid packages. Vietnam and India are expanding export-oriented aquaculture, but price sensitivity shapes a two-tier market where premium additives coexist with cost-optimized blends.

Europe’s aquafeed additives market size is projected to expand from USD 0.52 billion in 2025 to USD 0.77 billion by 2030 on an 8.3% CAGR as EU directives elevate sustainability requirements. Norway’s salmon sector leads precision feeding adoption, catalyzing trials of AI-supported dosing systems that elevate functional additive use efficiency. Horizon Europe projects funnel more than EUR 6 million (USD 6.95 million) into green-feed research annually, accelerating the commercialization of algae-derived antioxidants and phytonutrients.

North America presents a mature but innovation-friendly landscape. The US Strategic Plan for Aquaculture backs public-private infrastructures where additive developers pilot novel proteins or bacteriophage solutions under controlled conditions. Canada’s engagement with indigenous rights adds ESG layers that reward eco-friendly formulations. Meanwhile, Mexico’s shrimp operators deepen cross-border supplier ties, boosting additive throughput.

Aquafeed Additives Market CAGR (%), Growth Rate by Region
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Competitive Landscape

The aquafeed additives market shows moderate fragmentation. BASF, Evonik, and Cargill together held an 18% share in 2024, leveraging integrated chemical and commodity footprints. Their Research and Development budgets exceed USD 200 million annually, funding enzyme and phytogenic platforms. Mid-tier firms like ADM, Alltech, and Nutreco broaden portfolios via acquisitions, exemplified by Alltech’s EUR 7 million (USD 7.57 million) purchase of Raisio’s feed facility to scale Nordic nutrition solutions.

Technology remains a key differentiator. AKVA’s GBP 13.7 million (USD 17.5 million) acquisition of Observe Technologies embeds AI analytics into integrated farm management, a move anticipated to lift feed conversion by 5–7% on early deployments. Venture funding of USD 808 million flowed into aquaculture in the past year, highlighted by eFishery’s USD 200 million round targeting smart-feeding adoption. Start-ups such as String Bio gain traction after securing GRAS status for microbial proteins, enabling additive pairing with novel substrates.

Expertise in regulatory compliance serves as a competitive advantage, with firms proficient in EFSA dossier submissions collaborating with smaller ingredient innovators to accelerate market entry in the EU. Sustainability accreditation—carbon labeling, ASC compliance, and traceability platforms—now feature heavily in supplier pitches. These dynamics collectively keep the aquafeed additives market competitive yet open to disruption.

Aquafeed Additives Industry Leaders

  1. Nutreco N.V. (Skretting)

  2. BioMar Group

  3. Alltech

  4. Evonik Industries AG

  5. Cargill, Incorporated

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Aquafeed Additives Market Concentration
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Recent Industry Developments

  • June 2025: BioMar Norway has achieved ASC Feed Certification, ensuring its feed production meets sustainability and environmental responsibility standards and supporting Norwegian salmon farms ahead of upcoming certification requirements.
  • June 2025: IFB Agro has approved to acquire Cargill India’s shrimp and freshwater fish feed business, including feed formulations, manufacturing facilities, and associated resources, to strengthen its position in the aquafeed sector.
  • May 2025: Marfeed, a newly launched brand by MIAVIT GmbH and Arctic Feed Ingredients AS, introduces innovative feed additives designed to enhance aquaculture health, nutrition, and sustainability.
  • June 2024: BP Ventures invested USD 30 million in Calysta for FeedKind protein expansion aimed at aquaculture.

Table of Contents for Aquafeed Additives Industry Report

1. Introduction

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. Research Methodology

3. Executive Summary

4. Market Landscape

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
    • 4.2.1 Rising global seafood consumption and protein shift
    • 4.2.2 Expansion of intensive aquaculture capacity
    • 4.2.3 Government subsidies and sustainability mandates in aquaculture
    • 4.2.4 Functional additives replacing in-feed antibiotics
    • 4.2.5 Carbon-footprint labeling spurring micro-algae and single-cell additives
    • 4.2.6 AI-driven precision feeding enabling higher specialty-additive inclusion
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
    • 4.3.1 Volatile fishmeal and fish-oil pricing impacting additive cost pass-through
    • 4.3.2 Stringent multi-region approval timelines for novel feed additives
    • 4.3.3 Micro-plastics scrutiny on pellet binders and coating agents
    • 4.3.4 Climate-induced crop failures tightening phytobiotic supply
  • 4.4 Regulatory Landscape
  • 4.5 Technological Outlook
  • 4.6 Porters Five Forces Analysis
    • 4.6.1 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.6.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
    • 4.6.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.6.4 Threat of Substitute Products
    • 4.6.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5. Market Size and Growth Forecasts (Value)

  • 5.1 By Species Type
    • 5.1.1 Fish
    • 5.1.1.1 Salmonids
    • 5.1.1.2 Tilapia
    • 5.1.1.3 Carp
    • 5.1.1.4 Catfish
    • 5.1.2 Mollusks
    • 5.1.3 Crustaceans
    • 5.1.4 Others
  • 5.2 By Additive Type
    • 5.2.1 Vitamins
    • 5.2.2 Minerals
    • 5.2.3 Antioxidants
    • 5.2.4 Amino Acids
    • 5.2.5 Enzymes
    • 5.2.6 Acidifiers
    • 5.2.7 Probiotics and Prebiotics
    • 5.2.8 Phytogenics and Essential Oils
    • 5.2.9 Others (Carotenoids/Astaxanthin, Pellet Binders /Bentonite, etc.)
  • 5.3 By Form
    • 5.3.1 Dry Extruded Pellets
    • 5.3.2 Moist Pellets
    • 5.3.3 Micro-encapsulated Powders
  • 5.4 By Geography
    • 5.4.1 North America
    • 5.4.1.1 United States
    • 5.4.1.2 Canada
    • 5.4.1.3 Mexico
    • 5.4.1.4 Rest of North America
    • 5.4.2 Europe
    • 5.4.2.1 Germany
    • 5.4.2.2 United Kingdom
    • 5.4.2.3 France
    • 5.4.2.4 Spain
    • 5.4.2.5 Russia
    • 5.4.2.6 Rest of Europe
    • 5.4.3 Asia-Pacific
    • 5.4.3.1 China
    • 5.4.3.2 India
    • 5.4.3.3 Japan
    • 5.4.3.4 Vietnam
    • 5.4.3.5 Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • 5.4.4 South America
    • 5.4.4.1 Brazil
    • 5.4.4.2 Argentina
    • 5.4.4.3 Rest of South America
    • 5.4.5 Middle East
    • 5.4.5.1 Turkey
    • 5.4.5.2 Saudi Arabia
    • 5.4.5.3 Rest of Middle East
    • 5.4.6 Africa
    • 5.4.6.1 South Africa
    • 5.4.6.2 Rest of Africa

6. Competitive Landscape

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global-level Overview, Market-level Overview, Core Segments, Financials as available, Strategic Information, Market Rank/Share, Products and Services, and Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 Benchmark Holdings plc (INVE Aquaculture)
    • 6.4.2 BASF SE
    • 6.4.3 Evonik Industries AG
    • 6.4.4 Adisseo
    • 6.4.5 Cargill, Incorporated
    • 6.4.6 Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)
    • 6.4.7 BioMar Group
    • 6.4.8 Alltech
    • 6.4.9 Nutreco N.V. (Skretting)
    • 6.4.10 Zeigler Feeds
    • 6.4.11 Kemin Industries, Inc.
    • 6.4.12 Phibro Animal Health Corporation
    • 6.4.13 Calysta Inc.
    • 6.4.14 Bentoli
    • 6.4.15 Phytobiotics Futterzusatzstoffe GmbH

7. Market Opportunities and Future Outlook

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Global Aquafeed Additives Market Report Scope

Aquafeed additives are ingredients added to aquafeed to enhance their nutritional value and support growth and health. The report covers the extensive study of segments and factors driving the growth of the commercial global aquafeed additive market. The Aquafeed Additives Market is segmented based on Species Type (Fish, Mollusks, Crustaceans, and Others), Additives Type (Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, Amino Acids, Enzymes, Acidifiers, and Others), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Africa). The report offers market size and forecasts in terms of value (USD) and volume (Metric Tons) for all the above segments.

By Species Type Fish Salmonids
Tilapia
Carp
Catfish
Mollusks
Crustaceans
Others
By Additive Type Vitamins
Minerals
Antioxidants
Amino Acids
Enzymes
Acidifiers
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Phytogenics and Essential Oils
Others (Carotenoids/Astaxanthin, Pellet Binders /Bentonite, etc.)
By Form Dry Extruded Pellets
Moist Pellets
Micro-encapsulated Powders
By Geography North America United States
Canada
Mexico
Rest of North America
Europe Germany
United Kingdom
France
Spain
Russia
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Vietnam
Rest of Asia-Pacific
South America Brazil
Argentina
Rest of South America
Middle East Turkey
Saudi Arabia
Rest of Middle East
Africa South Africa
Rest of Africa
By Species Type
Fish Salmonids
Tilapia
Carp
Catfish
Mollusks
Crustaceans
Others
By Additive Type
Vitamins
Minerals
Antioxidants
Amino Acids
Enzymes
Acidifiers
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Phytogenics and Essential Oils
Others (Carotenoids/Astaxanthin, Pellet Binders /Bentonite, etc.)
By Form
Dry Extruded Pellets
Moist Pellets
Micro-encapsulated Powders
By Geography
North America United States
Canada
Mexico
Rest of North America
Europe Germany
United Kingdom
France
Spain
Russia
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Vietnam
Rest of Asia-Pacific
South America Brazil
Argentina
Rest of South America
Middle East Turkey
Saudi Arabia
Rest of Middle East
Africa South Africa
Rest of Africa
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Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the aquafeed additives market size in 2025?

The aquafeed additives market size stands at USD 2.9 billion in 2025 and is forecast to climb to USD 3.68 billion by 2030 on a 4.9% CAGR.

Which region leads the aquafeed additives market?

Asia-Pacific leads with 61.4% of revenue share in 2024, backed by China’s high-volume aquaculture sector and growing demand for functional feed solutions.

Why are probiotics gaining traction in aquafeed?

Regulatory restrictions on antibiotics and proven immunity benefits push probiotics to a 9.4% CAGR, the highest among additive categories to 2030.

How do fishmeal price swings affect additive demand?

Fishmeal volatility raises overall feed costs, making performance additives crucial for feed-conversion gains but sometimes delaying adoption in cost-sensitive markets.

Which species segment is growing fastest?

Crustaceans exhibit a 9.1% CAGR due to premium shrimp prices and the need for health-enhancing additives in intensive pond and RAS systems.

What technologies are reshaping the aquafeed additives industry?

AI-driven precision feeding, micro-encapsulation for bioactive protection, and microbial protein ingredients are notable innovations driving competitive advantage.

Page last updated on: July 4, 2025

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